Volunteer Youth Academic Tutor

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC is one of the world's largest international humanitarian non-governmental organizations (INGO), operating in more than 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, helping people to survive, reclaim control of their future, and strengthen their communities.

A force for humanity, IRC employees deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions. If you're a solutions-driven, passionate change-maker, join us in positively impacting the lives of millions of people worldwide for a better future.

DURATION: Flexible 15 hours or more per week - COMPLETELY IN PERSON

The IRC in New Jersey seeks volunteer tutors to support English language learners among recently arrived youth refugees who have fled persecution and are rebuilding their lives. Tutors will be paired with students based on mutual availability and may support students during individual in-home tutoring sessions. Tutors serve as academic coaches and positive role models, helping IRC youth succeed in school.

Tutors are not expected to receive, give, or loan money.

DESIRED QUALITIES:

• Passionate about helping youth reach their potential
• Flexible and patient
• Committed, dependable, and punctual
• Creative; has a sense of fun
• Active listener
• Culturally competent, comfortable, and aware of youth support needs

TUTOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attend an onsite orientation at the IRC Elizabeth office and complete associated IRC online trainings/background check
• Provide one-on-one individualized tutoring
• Create a welcoming environment that fosters community and learning
• Interact effectively with diverse populations
• Tutor assigned students at least 1.5-2 hours per week for a school year (6 months)
• Communicate regularly with the Youth Program Specialist and parents/guardians about student progress and issues
• Comply with office policies and program procedures
• Have reliable transportation to and from the student's home twice a week for the duration of the program

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven ability to build community within sessions and cultivate student commitment to learning
• Timely documentation and submission of Tutor Log after each session
• Thorough knowledge of English grammar and ability to explain verbs, tenses, and parts of speech
• Ability to interact with diverse populations and empathize with those unfamiliar with the local culture
• Ability to work independently in a multicultural environment
• Ethical and professional conduct to build respectful, trusting, and collaborative relationships
• Arabic, Dari, Spanish, Pashto, and/or Swahili speaking skills are preferred

The IRC and its workers adhere to the values outlined in the IRC Way – our Code of Conduct:
Integrity, Service, Accountability, and Equality.